12 MONTH CAR REVIEWS: Four Seasons Introduction: 2010 Volkswagen GTI

Close readers of our magazine will be forgiven for experiencing a bit of déjà vu. For the second time in three years, the Volkswagen GTI is our Automobile of the Year, and for the second time in three years, one is joining our Four Seasons fleet.

For this go around, we've selected a rather basic, two-door model, which starts at a very reasonable $23,995. We couldn't help but add Bluetooth, a premium audio system, a sunroof, xenon headlights, and a set of gorgeous 18-inch wheels (VW calls them "Detroit" wheels).

We did not opt for Volkswagen's excellent dual-clutch gearbox, much as we love its quickness on the track. We'll see if the old-fashioned six-speed manual can extract as much performance and fun on a day-to-day basis.

All our goodies bumped the price up to $27,255, about $500 more than our four-door, DSG-equipped 2007 model (so much for no inflation).

The interior, a strong point in the last-generation car, is even more of a standout here, with a standard touch-screen radio interface, heated seats in an eye-catching plaid cloth, and an in-dash six-CD changer.

So far, no one's complaining about GTI overexposure. The fact is, everything we loved about the last-generation car, from its overall value to its usable performance is even more readily apparent than before. We'll see if enough is new and different about the GTI to keep us infatuated for another four seasons.

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